Economic impacts of artisanal mining and environmental pollutants on food security in Southern Africa: a review

Marrufo, Tatiana J; Capece, Bettencourt P.S.; Silva, Maria Raquel

http://hdl.handle.net/10284/13266

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Authors

Marrufo, Tatiana J

Capece, Bettencourt P.S.

Silva, Maria Raquel

Abstract(s)

Introduction: Environmental pollutants, including those from mining activities, have become a significant global problem, contributing to millions of deaths and economic losses worldwide, while posing challenges in occupational, environmental, and social domains. This issue is also a public health concern that impacts food security and, consequently, people’s health. Objectives: This paper aims to analyze the economic impact of environmental pollution from mining activities on food security in the Southern Africa region. Methodology: Published articles available in electronic databases (PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar) from 2013 to 2023 were reviewed. The selected publications met the inclusion criteria, and the data were analyzed and synthesized into themes of interest. Findings: This region faces food insecurity despite its richness in natural resources. Artisanal mining is the main economic activity in some areas. The review highlighted mercury as the most used metal in artisanal mining, which has negative environmental impacts that affect agriculture and contribute to food insecurity. Gold is the primary commodity extracted in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), significantly influencing economic wealth. Conclusions and recommendations: Environmental pollution from artisanal mining has adversely affected agriculture and food security in Southern African communities. It is recommended to implement strategies to prevent environmental pollution in small communities where mining activities have a significant impact.

Keywords

Artisanal mining Environmental pollutants Food security Economy Southern Africa

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10284/13266

Citation

Marrufo, Tatiana J., Capece, Bettencourt P.S., Silva, Maria-Raquel G. (2024). Economic impacts of artisanal mining and environmental pollutants on food security in Southern Africa: a review, in PROCEEDINGS BOOK, EDG- 2024 - 2nd Conference – Economy, Development and Globalization - Subject – Research & Development (pp.41-54). Fernando Pessoa University / I3ID/CEPESE Porto, Portugal